On Computers: Ransomware joins malware in online scamming

Monday

Nov 4, 2013 at 12:01 AM

The malware scam artists constantly find new ways to rip off unsuspecting computer, tablet and cell phone users on the Internet. Be aware.

The malware scam artists constantly find new ways to rip off unsuspecting computer, tablet and cell phone users on the Internet. Be aware. You now have a better chance at being a malware victim than a virus victim.

Malware is similar to a virus, as it secretly adds a program to your system. Most attacks attempt to extort cash from you or personal information such as credit-card numbers or bank passwords. They often do this posing as software that eliminates malware. Neat trick.

FREE PROTECTION

You can pick up malware anywhere online. You won’t know you have it until it’s too late. Your virus scanner may stop some of it but not all. To be safe, you need a separate malware scanner. Lucky for us, some of the best are free.

Basic malware will launch a fake virus warning screen that looks like it is from Windows. If you click on “more information,” you will go to a Web site promising to remove your virus at an exorbitant price. The whole thing is fake. You have no virus.

More complex versions actually harm your device such as block your browser and your working anti-virus program. They may even block your System Restore and other steps you’d take to delete a virus. There’s almost always a money-grubbing angle that actually is extortion to get your system back.

The latest scheme is called Ransomware. This hijacks all the data files on your system, blocking your access. To get them back, you must pay the scammer $300 for a program. Of course, it does not work. He might say you then need a more powerful program costing thousands. A lot of users are falling for this.

WHAT TO DO

Go to pcmag.com and search for “malware scanners.” The magazine produces the highest regarded reviews of software and hardware. Reviews are written for non-tech folks and contain links to the software. Note: Do not access these links via a search site. You may get redirected to a scam site. Type the address into your browser.

Consumer Reports recommends the free Malwarebytes program for computers. I’ve used it for years with success, knock on wood.

THINGS TO DO

• Regularly back up your data files on CDs. Some malware will erase your hard drive.

• Be aware your virus checker may not remove all malware. Download a recommended malware scanner. Free Malwarebytes is most popular at malwarebytes.org.

• Consumer Reports recommends downloading Rkill from bleepingcomputer.com if you are a victim of ransomware. It temporarily disables the malware and enables Malwarebytes to delete it.

• Run your malware scanner at last once a week. If you see a warning screen that you have a virus, immediately run it.

• For cellphones and tablets, only download from reliable vendors such as Google Play Store, AmazonAppstore and Apple App Store or the store of your device maker. They scan offerings for malware before sale.